Thu 20 Aug 2009
Ask mL: Do I need a foundation primer?
Posted by MollyLoretta under Ask ML
[2] Comments
This is a question I get asked consistently when I’m working on other faces, or answering questions via e-mail (which I do regularly, so if you have a question, be sure to hit me an e-mail at molly.loretta@gmail.com, I promise to answer!).
I figure, why not answer here?
I don’t want to get slapped for saying this, but….
I think foundation primer is 100% optional.
Foundation primer really helps to smooth out the skin for application, and while I do find that it smooths the skin and I use less foundation…. I also feel like around the general problem areas (the t-zone), that it gets oily FASTER, as well as the foundation tends to WEAR OFF. I think it’s good on cheeks, and I do think there are some great primers out there (Like Make Up For Ever’s All Mat or Smashbox Photo Finish Light, I haven’t tried it on myself more than the back of my hand, but I’m sure Urban Decay’s Pore Perfecting Complexion Primer Potion should work fabulously as well), I just don’t think they’re necessary.
Not to mention, many foundations are silicone based now, or at the very least have silicones in them. If they have silicones in them, it’s already going to help with application and wear. So you’re just putting silicone on top of silicone…. Which is a little silly, in my opinion. Silicone is what makes a base a base and makes products apply on smoothly, so why more if you don’t need it?
I do think primer is fabulous on drier skin types; in fact I prefer it. If for no other reason it makes the dry areas less visible, those flakes just seem to disappear — however you don’t need to buy one for dry skin if you have dry skin, any matte primer would do. I also love it if you’re using a powder foundation as opposed to a liquid or cream it makes the finish much smoother.
But is it necessary and a crucial step in make up application? In my opinion…. No.
Questions? Just ask!
